Original Voice of JEM Gives Voice to New Children's Book Celebrating Diversity

By: May. 28, 2015
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Transforming the children's book genre, Square Zair Pair is a new children's picture book by author Jase Peeples that seeks to teach kids about acceptance of LGBT couples and diversity within communities through its beautifully illustrated tale of fictional Zairs in the magical world of Hanamandoo.

The son of a librarian, Peeples was inspired to create the book after a discussion with a friend in which this friend shared that he and his husband were finding it a real challenge locating a children's picture book with positive LGBT messages the two could share with their daughter. "I wanted to help by creating a new unique tale for families who might be looking for stories that better reflected their own lives and experience," says Peeples.

With the release of Square Zair Pair, Peeples hopes to help young people across the world realize that differences are meant to be celebrated, and that regardless of the types of couples one encounters, love is beautiful in all shapes and forms.

Children of the 80s will glean much joy from the familiar voice of Jem (Jem and the Holograms), Samantha Newark, who brings the story to life in audio book form. The audio book for Square Zair Pair is a current perk for those pledging $100 and up to the book's Kickstarter campaign, which runs through June 10.

"I'm so honored to be a part of this special project, and can't wait for Square Zair Pair to be introduced to the world," says Newark.

The campaign seeks to crowdfund $10,000 for an initial print run that will help stock local bookstore shelves and online retailers, and eventually libraries and elementary schools, with copies of Square Zair Pair. Other Kickstarter rewards include original watercolor artwork by the book's illustrator, former Disney artist Christine Knopp; autographed copies of the book; live classroom readings of the book anywhere in the world; and posters and postcard sets.

Peeples adds, "In addition to furthering a message of acceptance and shaping future LGBT allies, it's my hope that Square Zair Pair can also help young people who feel they are different, realize their differences should be celebrated, and regardless of who they pair with, love is a beautiful thing."

Those interested in learning more about the book can visit the official Square Zair Pair Kickstarter page at:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1147542421/square-zair-pair-a-story-celebrating-diversity-of



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